“On behalf of all New Democrats, I’d like to wish a Happy Vaisakhi to Sikhs celebrating in Canada and around the world.

Over the next few weeks, Canadian Sikhs will celebrate Vaisakhi by marching in Khalsa Day parades and more importantly by doing sewa – which is the selfless community service.

Vaisakhi is the celebration of Guru Gobind Singh Ji initiating the tradition of the Khalsa, which translates to the sovereign. The Khalsa is based on fundamental values of freedom, equality and justice.

It celebrates human rights and emphasizes that we are all one –that regardless of your gender, race, sexuality or identity, you should be free of oppression, discrimination and prejudice.

This commitment to taking care of those around you in the name of selfless service is something we can all be inspired by.

So, let’s dig deeper into our wells of selflessness, love and compassion, and together, lift up those around us so that we all rise.